Select the correct alternative to fill in the blank with the correct preposition in the following sentence.
A few people dislike earning money _______ unfair means.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer
by
Explanation
The correct preposition to fill in the blank is "by." In English grammar, the phrase "by means of" or simply "by... means" is a standard idiomatic construction used to denote the method, instrument, or process through which an action is accomplished. When describing the way someone gains, achieves, or earns something, "by" is the appropriate preposition to pair with the noun "means," as seen in expressions like "by fair means" or "by unfair means."
The alternative prepositions are grammatically incorrect in this context. The preposition "on" is used for surfaces or specific days. The preposition "in" usually denotes containment within a space or period of time. The preposition "for" indicates a purpose, reason, or target recipient, none of which align with the process of earning through a specific method.
Key Point
Prepositional usage often depends on fixed collocations with nouns like "means." When indicating the methodology used to achieve a goal—whether honest or dishonest—the preposition "by" is uniquely required to link the action of earning to the method used.